Outdoor Photography Podcast artwork

Outdoor Photography Podcast

88 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 months ago - ★★★★★ - 161 ratings

Join Brenda Petrella from Outdoor Photography School as she sits down with top landscape and nature photographers and leaders in the outdoor industry to unpack their approaches to creativity, connecting with nature, and working safely and comfortably in the natural world. This weekly podcast is a mix of interviews and quick tip episodes. The Tidbit Tuesday episodes include nuggets of practical information and a Q&A section where Brenda answers your submitted questions. Be sure to follow the podcast on your favorite podcast player and get ready to be inspired to create better images and reconnect with nature!

Visual Arts Arts Education How To outdoor photography landscape photography nature photography outdoor skills nature natural world safety composition creativity connecting with nature
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Episodes

Navigating Photography and Parenthood With Chrissy Donadi

November 30, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 51.2 MB

Episode 35: Today I sit down with Pennsylvania-based landscape, nature, and travel photographer and educator, Chrissy Donadi, to chat about: Her unexpected path into photography Balancing the technical and creative aspects of photography Some tips on how to keep Lightroom running efficiently and keeping your catalog organized The challenges and joys of hiking with dogs and children How motherhood has changed the way she sees and connects with the landscape The importance of tinkering w...

Achieving Balance in Composition

November 23, 2021 08:00 - 14 minutes - 10.2 MB

Episode 34: In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I answer a listener question about how to achieve balance in photography composition.  We chat about what balance is, what role balance plays in evoking certain emotions, how we can effectively use balance to create compelling photos, and more.   Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: Episode 25: Reverent and Responsible Landscape Photography With Karen Cooper Episode 27: Creative Living and Expressive Photography With Alister Benn OPS Video Tutorial: Ready or Not...

Being Called to the Landscape With Michele Sons

November 16, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 59.2 MB

Episode 33: Today, I sit down with Virginia-based fine art landscape photographer, Michele Sons, to chat about: How life circumstances led to her passion for photography Deciding to leave a high-stress career to pursue photography full-time Her inspiration behind creating the Appalachian Dreams Poster Series and the Feminine Landscape Series Advice on how to get your work published in different media outlets and shown in exhibits Developing her signature style and feel to her photograph...

Does Size Matter?

November 09, 2021 08:00 - 14 minutes - 10.1 MB

Episode 32: In today’s quick Tidbit Tuesday, I answer two listener questions about camera sensor size, image quality, printing, and more.  Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: Digital Camera Database Episode 24: How to Expose For High Dynamic Range Scenes BorrowLenses Rentals (affiliate link) Full Show Notes *** HAVE A QUESTION? Record a Question for Tidbit Tuesday LOVE THE OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY PODCAST? Ways you can support the show: Buy Me a Coffee Leave a Rating and Review Share the show wi...

Stewardship and Conservation Through Photography With David Hunter

November 02, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 42.5 MB

Episode 31: Today, I’m joined by California-based landscape and conservation photographer, David Hunter, to chat about: How he got started in landscape and conservation photography How being a photographer and an elementary school teacher both contribute to how he approaches creativity How he approaches photography projects His work with various conservancies, the Bureau of Land Management, and with several National Parks as an Artist in Residence The technical and physical challenges o...

Understanding Histograms, ETTR, and ETTL

October 26, 2021 07:00 - 14 minutes - 10.2 MB

Episode 30: Have you heard that using the histogram is a better way to assess exposure than your camera’s metering system?  Are you still a bit confused on how to properly use the histogram, and it means to expose to the right (ETTR) or expose to the left (ETTL)?  Do you know the difference between the luminosity and RGB histograms and what each can tell you about your exposure?  In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I breakdown what histograms are, how to read them, and how to use them to assess your ...

Personal Growth Through Landscape Photography With Brie Stockwell

October 19, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 55.5 MB

Episode 29: Today, I sit down with Texas-based landscape photographer and personal coach, Brie Stockwell, to chat about: How a personal coaching experience set her on a journey to learn landscape photography Setting impossible goals and discovering the possibilities within you Learning how to fail well and using it as a growth experience Moving past fear, self-doubt, and comparisonitis How changing your mindset around success can help you create images you’re proud of The value of prin...

Protecting Your Camera Gear While in Nature

October 12, 2021 07:00 - 12 minutes - 8.92 MB

Episode 28:  In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I answer a listener question about camera backpacks - specifically waterproof (not just water-resistant) camera backpack options.  I also give some tips on how to protect your camera gear while spending time in the great outdoors.  Enjoy! OPS Article: Gear You Need for Outdoor Photography OPS Video: How to Protect Your Camera in Bad Weather OPS Video: Camera Bag Hack Episode 17: Exploration, Conservation, and Empathy With Charles Bergman North Ame...

Creative Living and Expressive Photography With Alister Benn

October 05, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 54.9 MB

Episode 27: Today, I sit down with Scotland-based landscape photographer and educator, Alister Benn, to chat about: His journey into being a full-time landscape photographer What expressive photography means to him The idea of possessing creativity through creative living The role of emotions in personal expression and creativity The relationship between innate creativity and the subconscious mind His five figures of engagement: luminosity, contrast, color, geometry, and atmosphere and...

Fall Foliage Photography Tips

September 28, 2021 07:00 - 14 minutes - 10.4 MB

Episode 26:  In today’s short Tidbit Tuesday, I share six photography tips that will help you create amazing images of fall foliage.  Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: OPS Article: How to Photograph Stunning Fall Colors: A Complete Guide Episode 2: Should You Buy Photography Filers? Episode 18: Let’s Talk about Light New England Fall Color Prediction Sites: Yankee Magazine: https://newengland.com/  Fall Foliage Reports: https://leafpeepers.com/ New England Foliage: http://newenglandfoliage.net...

Reverent and Responsible Landscape Photography With Karen Cooper

September 21, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 47.4 MB

Episode 25: Today, I sit down with Vancouver-based landscape photographer, Karen Cooper, to chat about: How walking in nature as a form of physical therapy led her into nature photography The value of developing an intimate relationship with locations by revisiting them over and over again The vast landscape and diverse ecosystems in British Columbia Her decisions around opening her own fine art gallery How she uses her photography to inspire others to respect nature and appreciate it o...

How to Expose for High Dynamic Range Scenes

September 14, 2021 07:00 - 17 minutes - 12.4 MB

Episode 24: In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I answer a listener question about how to deal with scenes with high dynamic range, such as a sunrise or sunset image.  What is dynamic range?  Do you expose for the shadows, highlights, or both?  What’s a stop of light?  I answer these questions and provide five tips on how to capture images with high dynamic range.  Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: Episode 2: Should You Buy Filters?  Landscape Photography Filters Explained Episode 15: How to Safely Explore ...

How to Expose for High Dynamic Range Scenes

September 14, 2021 07:00 - 17 minutes - 12.4 MB

Episode 24: In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I answer a listener question about how to deal with scenes with high dynamic range, such as a sunrise or sunset image.  What is dynamic range?  Do you expose for the shadows, highlights, or both?  What’s a stop of light?  I answer these questions and provide five tips on how to capture images with high dynamic range.  Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: Episode 2: Should You Buy Filters?  Landscape Photography Filters Explained Episode 15: How to Safely Explore ...

Creating Natural Abstracts, Slow Photography, and Photography Projects With Jennifer Renwick

September 07, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 60 MB

Episode 23: Today, I sit down with Colorado-based nature photographer, Jennifer Renwick, to chat about: How she knew it was time to take the leap and do nature photography full-time Words of advice for hobbyist photographers who are considering going into photography full-time The benefits of living a semi-nomadic life on her approach to photography How she and her partner, David Kingham, pivoted to keep their photography business afloat during the pandemic How she and David structure t...

Q&A re: Planning Images and Switching to Mirrorless

August 31, 2021 07:00 - 16 minutes - 11.6 MB

Episode 22: In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I answer listener questions about planning images and my decision to switch to mirrorless.  We chat about: Four categories of information to consider when planning an image Apps and resources for image planning The benefits of *not* planning images or compositions My decision to switch from a DSLR to mirrorless camera system Pros and cons of switching to mirrorless LINKS MENTIONED: PhotoPills Friday Video Series Episode 14: Travel and Packing Ti...

Large Format Black & White Nature Photography With Cody Schultz

August 24, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 57.7 MB

Episode 21: Today I sit down with Pennsylvania-based nature photographer and creative writer, Cody Schultz, to chat about: Photography as a way of coping with mental health struggles What it’s like to do landscape photography with medium and large format cameras How the process of slowing down with large format photography helps him connect with nature Why he transitioned to exclusively creating black and white images The technical details of using a large format camera Why he only pho...

[SPECIAL EPISODE] What Does Connecting With Nature Mean to You?

August 17, 2021 07:00 - 12 minutes - 9 MB

Episode 20: Today, we celebrate our 20th episode by paying tribute to the ten amazing guests we’ve had on the podcast so far.  Each of them has shared so much wisdom and valuable nuggets of information about photography, creativity, composition, and connecting with nature.  This special edition of Tidbit Tuesday is a compilation of their responses to the question: what does connecting with nature mean to you?  Please enjoy! GUEST WEBSITES: Episode 1: Matt Payne Episode 3: Chase Tucker Ep...

What Does Connecting With Nature Mean to You?

August 17, 2021 07:00 - 12 minutes - 8.98 MB

#020:  Today, we celebrate our 20th episode by paying tribute to the ten amazing guests we’ve had on the podcast so far.   Each of them has shared so much wisdom and valuable nuggets of information about photography, creativity, composition, and connecting with nature.   This special edition of Tidbit Tuesday is a compilation of their responses to the question: what does connecting with nature mean to you?  Please enjoy! * Episode 20 Show Notes: outdoorphotographyschool.com/episode20 * Lea...

Visual Perception and Cultivating Creativity With Colleen Miniuk

August 10, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 61.9 MB

Episode 19: Today, I’m sitting down with Arizona-based landscape photographer, avid writer, and educator Colleen Miniuk to chat about: How she transitioned from a technical career to a more creative career The value of following your curiosity, letting go of expectations, playing, and being open to experimentation with photography Gestalt psychology of visual perception and how to use it to create more meaningful images The five inventories to take in the field to discover compositions ...

Let's Talk About Light

August 03, 2021 07:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MB

Episode 18:  Light creates everything we see - colors, contrast, shapes, lines, etc., and therefore learning how to “see” light is an essential step in creating more compelling images.  So, in this Tidbit Tuesday, I break down the different characteristics of light, how to effectively use whatever light you have, and how light shapes the mood of a scene or subject. LINKS MENTIONED: Episode 2: Should You Buy Filters? Photography Filters Explained Episode 16: What to Photograph on Overcast,...

Exploration, Conservation, and Empathy With Charles Bergman

July 27, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 54 MB

Episode 17: Today, I sit down with award-winning writer and photographer, Charles Bergman, to chat about: How following different passions led him to photography How to reframe how we relate to animals to respond better to the global extinction crisis The importance of storytelling in creating meaning and connection How he hadn’t intended to write a book about penguins, and what inspired him to do so What makes penguins compelling His expedition experiences to several continents to lea...

What to Photograph on Overcast, Grey Days?

July 20, 2021 07:00 - 10 minutes - 7.39 MB

Episode 16: Do gloomy grey days bring you the photography blues?  When the sky is drab and the light is blah, it can be hard to be inspired to get out to do some photography.  But, even in these conditions, there are plenty of compositional opportunities.  In this short Tidbit Tuesday episode, I chat about how to think about light, the benefits of photographing on overcast days, and share potential subjects that work well in flat even light. LINKS MENTIONED: Episode 13: Creative Self-Expre...

How to Safely Explore the Outdoors With Courtney Harvey

July 13, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 72.9 MB

Episode 15: Today I sit down with certified wilderness first responder and instructor, Courtney Harvey, to chat about: Precautions and preparation steps to take before trekking out into nature, whether that is a local trail or an extended stay in the backcountry Common injuries and mistakes people make while in nature What safety and outdoor gear and food to pack for both day hikes and multi-day hikes Importance and benefits of different types of clothing and materials Safety tips for y...

Travel and Packing Tips for Outdoor Photographers

July 06, 2021 07:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MB

Episode 14:  In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I share some tips and reminders on packing and traveling with your camera gear.   It can be tempting to pack everything to keep your options open, but bringing it all may be unnecessary and even impractical given your mode of transportation.   I share five questions that have helped me determine what gear is actually necessary to bring on a photography trip and to find that balance between what I *want* to bring and what I *need* to bring.  These tips...

Creative Self-Expression, Composition, and Letting Go of Expectations With Sarah Marino

June 29, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 47.2 MB

Episode 13: Today I sit down with Colorado-based nature photographer, Sarah Marino, to chat about: Finding internal peace through photography and nature Figuring out a work/life balance and the power of saying no How living a semi-nomadic life transformed her approach to nature photography The value of using visual design principles over composition rules when it comes to creating compelling images Being mindful of the impacts of photography on the environment And so much more! LINKS ...

How to Get Sharp Images & Thoughts on Location Sharing

June 22, 2021 07:00 - 23 minutes - 16.5 MB

Episode 12:  In today’s Tidbit Tuesday episode, I answer two listener questions about how to get sharp images and discuss four key steps to nailing focus in landscape and nature images.  We discuss autofocus settings, depth of field, hyperfocal distance, image stabilization, and more!   Then, in response to another listener's question, I give my perspectives on sharing locations and what to consider when trying to decide whether it is ethical or appropriate to do so.  I hope the discussion ...

Finding Inspiration in the Texas Landscape With Linda Nickell

June 15, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 47.4 MB

Episode 11: Today I sit down with landscape and travel photographer, Linda Nickel, to chat about: Linda’s photography webinar series, the Happiness Hour The diverse and exciting landscapes that Texas has to offer Tips on great photographic locations and what to expect Precautions to take while photographing in intense heat Connecting with nature as a city girl And so much more! LINKS MENTIONED: Website: lindanickell.com Follow Linda Nickell on Instagram Linda Nickell's Happiness Ho...

Kick Your Photography Rut in the Butt and Q&A

June 08, 2021 07:00 - 19 minutes - 13.2 MB

Episode 10:  Do you have days when you feel burnt out or totally stuck in a photography slump?  Do you ever feel like your creative juices are just all dried up?  Or nothing feels exciting to photograph?  I know I do.  In this episode, I share five ways to help you get through the photography doldrums and back to feeling inspired about your work.   And then, I answer some of your submitted questions.  Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: Music clip: Diana Krall performing Pick Yourself Up. (C) 2007 Th...

Exploring Yosemite and the Value of Connecting With Nature With Robb Hirsch

June 01, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 52.1 MB

Episode 9: Today, I sit down with landscape photographer, Robb Hirsch, to chat about: Robb’s transition from biologist to full-time photographer The pros and cons of shooting a wide variety of subjects The importance of staying curious in photography The value of connecting with and respecting nature and minimizing our impact on the environment His process behind creating his new book, “The Nature of Yosemite- A Visual Journey” Ways to use photography to advocate for conservation And ...

Four Steps to Finding Compositions in Landscape Photography

May 25, 2021 07:00 - 13 minutes - 9.08 MB

Episode 8:  Do you struggle to find compelling compositions in a grand landscape?  This week’s Tidbit Tuesday episode was inspired by one of our podcast listeners who wanted some tips for creating compositions of wide-open scenes.  I share a four-step thought process that helps me to identify unique and compelling images, regardless of whether it is a grand landscape or a small scene.  I hope it helps you out as well! LINKS MENTIONED: Make your own composition card: download Composition Ca...

Creating Images With Impact in Conservation Photography with Jaymi Heimbuch

May 18, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 50.6 MB

Episode 7: Today I sit down with wildlife conservation photographer, Jaymi Heimbuch, to chat about: Key elements of a conservation story How to pitch conservation stories to publications How to familiarize yourself with wildlife behavior Quality versus content when it comes to image creation The role of social media in conservation photography And so much more! LINKS MENTIONED: Websites: https://jaymiheimbuch.com/ and https://conservationvisualstorytellersacademy.com/  Follow Jaymi ...

Protect Yourself From Ticks and Focusing in Landscape Photography

May 11, 2021 07:00 - 14 minutes - 10.1 MB

Episode 6: In today’s Tidbit Tuesday, I share five quick tips on how to protect yourself from contracting a tick-borne illness after spending time in nature.  Ticks are prevalent all over the world, and while their bites are sometimes harmless, they can also transmit pathogens that cause pretty debilitating diseases.  Preventing bites in the first place can go a long way in keeping you safe from these little critters.   I then answer one of our listener’s questions on the topic of where to ...

Creativity, Visual Flow, and Finding Your Vision Beyond the Icons with Brenda Tharp

May 04, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 54.6 MB

Episode 5: Today I sit down with Brenda Tharp, to chat about: Her journey into photography Her lifelong connection to and love of nature Where she derives inspiration from and how she approaches composition When to use the rules of composition and when not to Visual flow in composition Visual design elements and how they relate to composition Learning how to see light And much more! LINKS MENTIONED: Website: http://www.brendatharp.com Follow Brenda Tharp on Instagram Follow  Bren...

Photo Editing vs Photo Manipulation: Is There a Limit?

April 27, 2021 04:00 - 21 minutes - 14.8 MB

Episode 4: This Tidbit Tuesday is a little more philosophical in nature as I answer two of our listener questions around photo manipulation - whether that is done in the field or in the digital darkroom.  Is there a difference between photo editing and photo manipulation?  And if so, where’s the line?  Who makes that call?  Should you disclose when you have manipulated an image?  What are the implications if you do or don’t?  Learn how this debate has transpired over the relatively short lif...

How to Prevent Injuries and Prepare Your Body for Hiking with Chase Tucker

April 20, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 43.1 MB

Episode 3: Today, I sit down with certified strength and conditioning coach, Chase Tucker, to chat about: How to prevent injuries and knee pain while hiking Common muscle weaknesses as a result of working a desk job and how to address them for more comfortable hiking Safety tips for hiking alone The mental health benefits of connecting with nature and staying present And so much more! LINKS MENTIONED: Website: www.basecamptraining.com.au Follow Chase Tucker on Instagram Follow Chase...

Should You Buy Filters? Landscape Photography Filters Explained and Q&A

April 13, 2021 05:00 - 38 minutes - 26.3 MB

Episode 2:  Welcome to our first Tidbit Tuesday episode, where I give you practical photography tips or outdoor advice and answer your submitted questions.  Today, we talk about filters used in outdoor photography, which also relates to two of our listener questions.  I explain the four different types of filters commonly used in outdoor photography, the three that I think are the ones worth having, how and when to use them, what to look for when choosing a filter, and some recommendations....

Ethical Landscape Photography and How Psychology Influences the Creative Process with Matt Payne

April 06, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 59 MB

Episode 1: Welcome to the very first episode of the Outdoor Photography Podcast!  Today, I sit down with Colorado-based landscape photographer, Matt Payne, to chat about: How mindset and the psychology of competition can impact the creative process How social media and advanced post-processing techniques have influenced the public’s perception of the natural world and of photography as an artform How to balance self-expression and creativity with maintaining the integrity or reality of a ...

Introducing the Outdoor Photography Podcast

March 22, 2021 05:00 - 56 seconds - 730 KB

Welcome to the Outdoor Photography Podcast, a weekly show created by Brenda Petrella from Outdoor Photography School! Join us for in-depth conversations with top photographers about creativity, composition, and techniques, and with outdoor leaders about the skills you need to be safe and comfortable in the outdoors.  Learn to use your photography as a way of deepening your connection with nature. On shorter episodes, called Tidbit Tuesdays, Brenda shares practical nuggets of information ab...

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